“Women in Business” originated from an idea by the Counsellor of the Embassy of Italy in Prague, Laura Calligaro, in collaboration with the Italian-Czech Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CAMIC), with the aim of supporting Italian women entrepreneurs in the Czech Republic.
As part of the Farnesina’s economic diplomacy promotion activities, the Embassy of Italy in Prague subsequently launched a series of initiatives, including the “Progetto Donna”, to offer specialised consultancy services to Italian women interested in starting a business in the Czech Republic.
PAST EVENTS
19 November 2024 – “Women in Business: Opportunities and Challenges in Czechia” in Prague
On 19 November 2024, the Embassy of Italy in Prague hosted the event “Women in Business: Opportunities and Challenges in Czechia”, jointly organised by the Embassy and CAMIC. The event opened with speeches by Ambassador Mauro Marsili and CAMIC President Danilo Manghi, and featured guest speakers such as Czech entrepreneur and former MEP Martina Dlabajová, and President of the Marisa Bellisario Foundation, Lella Golfo, who participated via a video message.
The round table, moderated by Deputy Head of Mission Laura Calligaro, brought together prominent figures from the business world: Tereza Rychtaříková (Vodafone CZ), Valentina Stranieri (UniCredit CZ), and Dr. Laura Catarrasa, who addressed the topic of maternity leave. Closing remarks were delivered by Eva Horelová, Deputy Head of the European Commission Representation in Prague.
The event provided an opportunity to reflect on growth prospects for women’s entrepreneurship and laid the groundwork for a future Italian–Czech network of businesswomen, highlighting the contribution of women to the local economic fabric. As Ambassador Marsili emphasised, the initiative is also in line with the priorities of the Italian G7 Presidency, with particular attention to the role of women in the labour market.
To foster women’s participation in business, three thematic subgroups were created: Culture, Services and Start-ups. The first addresses the challenge posed by the language barrier and, consequently, the importance of translation. The second examines the challenges and opportunities in the professional services sector, especially from a legal standpoint. The third – scheduled for October 2025 – aims to focus on innovation by providing a clear overview of local regulations and available funding to support Italian women entrepreneurs in the Czech Republic.
24 April 2025 – Official launch of “Progetto Donna”
Published on 24 April 2025 on the website of the Italian-Czech Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Progetto Donna is a platform developed in cooperation with the Embassy of Italy in Prague, dedicated to Italian women wishing to start a business in the Czech Republic.
The project aims to:
- Support Italian women entrepreneurs by providing consultancy services in Italian on tax, regulatory, and management matters, as well as information on available incentives and funding;
- Promote female participation in the economy, also through dedicated spaces, resources, and initiatives;
- Facilitate the creation of professional networks through events, seminars, and workshops, encouraging the exchange of experiences among Italian and Czech entrepreneurs and local stakeholders.
The initiative addresses the need to overcome common barriers, such as access to credit, training, and networking. Considering the differences in legislation and practices between Italy and the Czech Republic, tailored introductory consultancy services help participants navigate the local environment. The creation of a stable network of contacts adds value for developing cross-border partnerships and strengthening the role of women in the Italian–Czech economy.
26 May 2025 – “Women in Business” Workshop in Brno and presentation of Progetto Donna
On 26 May 2025, a new meeting in the “Women in Business” series took place in Brno, at Vicino DiVino, once again promoted by the Embassy of Italy in Prague and CAMIC. The event focused on women’s entrepreneurship in the Czech Republic, with an emphasis on inclusivity, showcasing sector excellence, and, in particular, exploring Progetto Donna.
Deputy Head of Mission, Counsellor Laura Calligaro, participated via video link together with business consultant Silvia Baccarini, to illustrate how the consultancy desk operates: a service in Italian covering taxation, legislation, and business management, with special attention to incentives for women entrepreneurs.
The workshop concluded with a networking session designed to strengthen ties between Italian and Czech women entrepreneurs and local stakeholders in Moravia, also with a view to potential international collaborations.
CONTACTS AND FURTHER INFORMATION
To access consultancy services or receive updates on events and initiatives related to Progetto Donna, please contact:
Kateřina Stolínová
Deputy Director – Head of External Affairs & PR, CAMIC
📧 katerina.stolinova@camic.cz
📞 +420 727 948 148
🌐 Progetto Donna – Official CAMIC website
🌐 Embassy of Italy in Prague – Dedicated page
Mgr. Paola Spoladore, advokát
Advokátní kancelář Spoladore & Bystřický
🏢 U Kanálky 4/1359, 120 00 Praha 2, Czech Republic
📞 +420 222 090 000
📱 +420 731 563 961
🌐 www.spoladore.com
Silvia Baccarini
BS&P Czech Republic a.s.
